Bridge Building in Engineering, what does that mean?

We need to break down our silos to survive in the world of software-defined vehicles

What does bridge building in engineering mean?

What is it actually like - ‘bridge building in engineering’? Okay, it's about silos or islands, that's clear. But why do you have to connect these islands, i.e. why do you have to build bridges?

By building bridges between the islands, we manage to master the complexity

It's about making the increasing complexity of our highly complex product landscape manageable. This is not an issue that only affects the automotive industry. It is a cross-industry problem.

What is complexity?

What exactly is complexity? We talk about complex systems when the system consists of a large number of components that interact with each other in different ways. They follow rules that are only known in a small environment. And finally, the added value for the customer that arises from the complex system is greater than the sum of its individual parts.

Harry Hardware and his island

Let's take a closer look at the two protagonists, Harry Hardware and Siggi Software. Harry is the ‘king of the grill’, he masters his business because he and his predecessors have constantly optimised the handling of screws, sheet metal, parts and modules and perfected the optimal process for building a vehicle in production.

The new kid on the block - Siggi Software has yet to find his place

Now the new colleague comes into play and is immediately given a lot of responsibility. We're talking about Siggi Software. He arrived quite late and is now sitting on his newly created island. His role in the overall construct is not yet clear. He is trying to find his way around, orientate himself and get involved.

What exactly do we mean by bridges?

What do we mean when we use the image of a bridge? It is primarily about connecting two ends with each other. This enables new interactions that are based on a common foundation. This bridge is respected and valued by both sides. And finally, it can be used in both directions.

How can we start to build a bridge between Harry and Siggi?

So, where do we start to build a bridge between Harry and Siggi?

We need a common language!

We need a common language. You can find out how we can achieve this in the following blog posts.

What experiences and examples do you have of SW and HW people not getting along?

Do you agree that you first have to agree on a common language in order to be able to work together effectively and efficiently?

Please leave a comment or send me a message. Stay tuned for more to come soon!

And don't forget: keep on rocking in a free world!